Healthify your inbox. Sign up for helpful, local posts about fitness, healthy eating and inspiration - delivered fresh every Friday!

6 Washington Farmers Markets You Must Visit this Season

Summer is just around the corner, and that means some of the Northwest’s most beloved farmers markets are about to re-open for the season. With more markets popping up each year – including weekday and evening openings – there’s no better place to get your fill of just-picked produce, local meats and cheeses, and artisanal foods.

Here are a few of the best Washington farmers markets that will be opening soon. Get out your market baskets – it’s time to start shopping!

Seattle Area

Seattle boasts markets in just about every neighborhood in the city, making local produce easy to find. While the University District and Ballard Market draw large crowds year-round, try checking out one of the city’s summer markets for an equally impressive selection and a more intimate neighborhood vibe.

1. Columbia City Market: This bustling market is a great place to buy all the veggies, eggs, honey, cheeses, seafood, meats, preserves, flowers, nursery stock, prepared food and goodies you can carry. Or better yet, pick up a complimentary red shopping wagon, load up on goodies, and make yourself a picnic lunch at the adjacent park.

Located at South Edmunds St. and 37th Ave. South, just off Rainier Ave. South in the heart of Columbia City. Visitors can easily take the light rail to the market. Open Wednesdays, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., May 7 through Oct.15.

2. Queen Anne Market: This gem of a market is a great place to stop after work, pick up fresh produce for the weekend, and enjoy an al-fresco dinner from one of the many rotating food trucks. This family-friendly market also has live music, children’s activities and a true community vibe.

Located at the top of Queen Anne on West Crockett and Queen Anne Ave. North. Open Thursdays, 3 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., June 5 through Oct. 16.

3. Phinney Ridge Market: This lively neighborhood destination is a perfect place to pick up some fresh produce at the end of a busy workweek. Despite its small size, this food-only market offers a range of fresh produce, farmstead cheeses, locally produced meats and seafood, and even a selection of food trucks for a quick dinner.

Located at the Phinney Neighborhood Center at 67th St. and Phinney Ave. South.Open Fridays, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., June 6 through Oct. 3 (closed for Fourth of July).

Outside Seattle

4. Redmond Saturday Market: Celebrating its 38th season and boasting more than 80 vendors, the Redmond Saturday Market is one of the largest summer markets in Western Washington. With a wide selection of locally-grown and prepared foods, plants and artisan crafts, the market also hosts a rotating lineup of live music and performances on its main stage.

Located at 7730 Leary Way next to Redmond Town Center. Open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., May 3 through Oct. 25.

5. Orcas Island Market and 6. San Juan Island Market: If you’re heading up to the San Juan Islands, check out the local markets on Orcas Island and San Juan Island. While the Orcas Island Market sells produce, there is also a wide selection of local pottery, crafts, art, jewelry and clothing. The San Juan Island Market offers produce grown on the island’s small farms, as well as healthy prepared foods such as fresh sushi, smoked salmon, fresh pasta and local cheeses.

The Orcas Island Market is located in heart of Eastsound at North Beach Road and Oberon Lane. Open Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 3 through Sept. 27.

The San Juan Island Market is located in downtown Friday Harbor at the Brickworks Building (150 Nichols St.). Open on Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., April 12 through Oct. 18.